Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to officials from the Walter Reed National Military Center. The diagnosis was made in December, and Austin developed complications from a minimally invasive procedure he underwent to treat the cancer. As a result, he was admitted to Walter Reed on January 1 and remains in the hospital.
Routine Screening Reveals Cancer
The cancer was discovered during routine lab tests for prostate screening at Walter Reed in early December. Austin then underwent a prostatectomy on December 22, during which he was under general anesthesia. The surgery was successful, and Austin was discharged the following day. Officials stated that his prognosis is excellent.
However, complications arose after the procedure, leading to Austin’s admission to the hospital. He experienced severe abdominal, hip, and leg pain along with nausea. An initial evaluation revealed a urinary tract infection, and on January 2, he was transferred to the intensive care unit for closer monitoring and higher-level care.
Treatment and Recovery
Further evaluation revealed abdominal fluid collections that were impairing the function of Austin’s small intestines. To address this, a tube was placed through his nose to drain his stomach, and non-surgical drains were used to drain the abdominal fluid collections. Despite these challenges, Austin’s condition has improved steadily throughout his hospitalization.
Officials confirmed on Tuesday that Austin’s infection has cleared, and he continues to make progress towards a full recovery. Although recovery from prostate cancer can be a slow process, he has never lost consciousness or undergone general anesthesia during his hospitalization.
A Personal Journey
In a press briefing, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated that Austin is recovering well and in good spirits. He also mentioned that Austin remains actively engaged in his duties as defense chief, monitoring the Department of Defense’s operations worldwide.
The delay in notifying the White House and key defense officials about Austin’s hospitalization sparked criticism and triggered a review of notification procedures. However, Ryder emphasized that decisions regarding personal health matters, including prostate cancer and its treatments, are deeply personal.
Prostate Cancer Statistics
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among American men, affecting 1 in every 8 men and 1 in every 6 Black men. Routine screening is essential for early detection and successful treatment.
For more information on Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s diagnosis and updates on his condition, visit F5mag.com.